In the wake of devastating wildfires in Fort McMurray, Alberta, which have ravaged an area larger than Dallas, two airlines have made a commendable decision to support those affected. Canadian North and Westjet are permitting evacuees to travel with their pets at no extra charge, a compassionate gesture during this challenging time.
As these airlines initiated evacuation flights earlier this week, many individuals were forced to leave their homes in haste, leaving them without arrangements for their beloved pets. To alleviate this issue, both airlines have opened their doors to a variety of animals, including cats, dogs, and even smaller creatures like bunnies and turtles. Passengers have taken to social media to share delightful images of their furry companions seated next to them, showcasing moments of joy amid the chaos. One tweet highlighted a flight carrying 130 people, accompanied by five cats, an impressive nineteen dogs, and two turtles.
In a heartwarming twist, Canadian North shared a story about a cat named Whiskers, who found herself in the care of flight attendants after her owner went into labor during the evacuation. The airline even created a special employee badge for the charming feline. A spokesperson for Canadian North expressed their commitment to accommodating pets, noting that this flexibility is not typical but warranted given the extraordinary circumstances. Both airlines have arranged numerous additional flights to ensure that everyone—two-legged and four-legged—reaches safety.
While the airlines’ benevolent actions are commendable, it is crucial to remember the dire situation from which these pets and their owners are escaping. Over 80,000 individuals have been displaced due to the wildfires, with more than 2,400 of the 25,000 buildings affected, many of which are homes. Rebuilding will be a lengthy process, but the kindness displayed by these airlines signifies a strong community spirit willing to help those in need. It’s heartening to see that families—pets included—can remain united during such trying times.
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In summary, the compassionate actions of Canadian North and Westjet airlines during the Fort McMurray wildfires have allowed many evacuees to keep their pets by their side, fostering a sense of comfort amid chaos. Their commitment to helping both people and animals showcases the power of community support during difficult times.